Is My Baby on Track? 0-12 Month Developmental Milestones 

As parents, we naturally watch our babies with wonder—and sometimes worry. Is she rolling over soon enough? Should he be babbling more by now? These questions are common, and they reflect the deep care we have for our children’s growth. Understanding developmental milestones can help you feel more confident and informed as your baby grows.

What Are Developmental Milestones?

Developmental milestones are skills or behaviors that most children achieve by a certain age. They fall into categories like:

• Physical (motor) development: rolling, crawling, walking

• Language and communication: babbling, saying words

• Cognitive development: problem-solving, exploring

• Social and emotional growth: smiling, responding to others

Every child develops at their own pace, but milestones give us a helpful framework to track progress and identify areas where extra support might be needed.

Milestones by Age: A General Guide

Here’s a look at typical milestones during the first year of life. Keep in mind that some babies reach these earlier or later—and that’s okay.

By 2 Months

• Begins to smile at people

• Can briefly calm themselves (may suck on hand)

• Coos and makes gurgling sounds

• Follows things with eyes and recognizes people at a distance

• Holds head up and begins to push up when lying on tummy

By 4 Months

• • Smiles spontaneously, especially at people

  • Babbles and mimics sounds

  • Reaches for toys with one hand

  • Pushes down on legs when feet are on a hard surface

  • Rolls from tummy to back

By 6 Months

• • Knows familiar faces and begins to recognize strangers

  • Responds to own name

  • Begins to sit without support

  • Rolls over in both directions

  • Passes things from one hand to the other

By 9 Months

• • May be afraid of strangers

  • Understands “no”

  • Makes a lot of different sounds like “mamama” and “bababa”

  • Looks for things you hide

  • Stands, holding on

By 12 Months

• • Cries when parents leave

  • Says “mama” and “dada” and exclamations like “uh-oh!”

  • Tries to imitate words

  • Pulls up to stand and may take a few steps

  • Puts things in and out of containers

What If My Baby Isn’t Meeting Milestones?

It’s important to remember that milestones are averages—not deadlines. Some babies take a little longer to reach certain skills, and that’s perfectly normal. However, if you notice your baby consistently missing several milestones or showing signs of delay, it’s a good idea to talk with your pediatrician.

Early support can make a big difference, and we’re here to guide you every step of the way.

Encouraging Healthy Development at Home

You can support your baby’s growth through simple, loving interactions:

• • Talk and sing to your baby often

  • Offer tummy time daily

  • Read books together

  • Respond to your baby’s sounds and gestures

  • Provide safe toys that encourage exploration

You’re Not Alone

Parenting is full of questions, and you don’t have to navigate them alone. At YouBelong Pediatrics, we’re here to partner with you in understanding your child’s development and celebrating every milestone—big and small.

If you have questions about your baby’s growth or want to check in on developmental progress, schedule an appointment today.  We’re here to help your child thrive.

Trusted Resources:

• CDC: CDC's Developmental Milestones

• Cleveland Clinc:  Baby Developmental Milestones